I have a 2002 seadoo xp. Comes with the 951 engine and is carbed. I have ridden a bunch of yamahas and a few kawys like the ultra 150.
I can tell you the xp is pretty dang agile for a couch. Think of it as the street bike of the water. Riding two up on it is a little iffy and defn a white knuckle ride. Mine runs 69 on the speedometer but I think its more like 60mph gps since that is what they run stock. The 951 engines make good power but they can be little iffy. They require some preventive maintenance. The main horror stories you here are people who neglect to take care of them.
Keep the carbs, rave valves, and fuel lines clean. Make sure all clamps are secure. And keep water out of the engine. Some people have problems with the vts but that is across all seadoos. I have not had any issues knock on wood. I bought mine and i had to put a new wear ring in but it makes a world of a difference. You can really throw these around like crazy and the move like they are on rails. They are pretty fast on the hole shot. I believe nada/kbb trade is like 2300 just the ski, and retail is like 3300 just the ski. So 3500 with trailer, clean ski, and some vests sounds alright but I guess could be better, close to 3000 is probably a good deal. It really depends on your location though.
Whatever you do make sure you do compression test and if possible a water test to get a feel of how well maintained the machine has been. Good thing is they are only 2 cylinders and make good power compared to other manufactures 3 cylinders, so everything is cheaper if you do have to replace stuff.
